But the truth waits patiently with Imam Mahdi’s (AS) reappearance.
We live in a world where the lines between truth and falsehood are increasingly blurred. Opinions are sold as facts. Injustice is painted as security. False leaders are praised, and sincere voices are silenced. But for those who believe in the awaited savior—Imam Mahdi (AS), the 12th Imam—none of this is surprising. In fact, it was foretold.
This is the Era of Occultation—a time when the Imam is hidden from our sight, but his presence is still real. A time of intense trials, confusion, and spiritual warfare. It’s not a war of weapons—but of hearts, ideas, and loyalties.
Let’s explore what this means and how we’re all part of this battle between truth and falsehood.
The Occultation: A Test of Faith
The occultation (Ghaybah) of Imam Mahdi (AS) is not an absence—it’s a test. A test of who will stay loyal to divine principles even when the leader is not physically present. It’s easy to follow truth when it’s visible, clear, and backed by power. It’s much harder when:
- Falsehood wears the mask of truth
- Justice is delayed
- Faith becomes lonely
But it’s in this very struggle that we prove our sincerity.
Truth vs. Falsehood: More Than Just Concepts
In Islamic teachings, truth (ḥaqq) and falsehood (bāṭil) are not just abstract ideas—they are living forces that shape the world. And in the absence of the Imam, this war becomes more intense.
Here’s how this war plays out in our time:
1. False Narratives Replacing Divine Guidance
Media, politics, and even some religious platforms push narratives that confuse or suppress the truth. Values like modesty, humility, and submission to God are mocked, while arrogance, materialism, and rebellion are glorified.
2. Corruption Dressed as Progress
Injustice is often done in the name of freedom. War is waged in the name of peace. Lies are repeated until they feel like truth. This confusion is one of the signs of the occultation period described in hadith.
3. Loneliness of the Truthful
Believers who hold on to the teachings of Ahlul Bayt (AS) may feel isolated, mocked, or even targeted. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that in the end times, “holding onto your religion will be like holding onto a burning coal.”
The Role of Believers in This War
This is not a time for passivity. The occultation is not an excuse to wait silently—it’s a call to action.
✦ Stay Rooted in Knowledge
Seek true knowledge from Qur’an and the teachings of the Ahlul Bayt. Don’t let ignorance or media narratives define your faith.
✦ Live the Values of the Imam
Even in his absence, we can live by the values Imam Mahdi (AS) will establish—truth, justice, patience, compassion, and resistance against tyranny.
✦ Be a Light in Darkness
Each believer is like a candle in this dark era. Our words, actions, and choices can guide others toward the truth—even if the world is filled with falsehood.
This Is His Time Too
Though hidden, Imam Mahdi (AS) is not disconnected. Many scholars describe this era as the silent stage of his leadership. He watches, prays for us, and supports the sincere—especially those who strive to prepare themselves and others for his reappearance.
So when we stand for truth in this difficult time, we are not alone. We are his army in waiting.
Final Thought
The war between truth and falsehood in the era of occultation is not just a spiritual theme—it’s our daily reality. Every scroll, every choice, every word we speak is part of this battlefield. And while falsehood may seem dominant, it’s temporary. The truth will rise.
And when it does, may we be among those who stood firm in the darkness, waiting for the light—not just as followers, but as prepared soldiers of the Imam.
